Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Bentley GTZ Zagato Review

Bentley GTZ Zagato

“By preparing our engines at an early stage for these “On a well-to-wheel basis, such fuels can deliver a consistently high net CO2 reduction of up to 90 per cent. “It is our conviction that renewable fuels, in particular second-generation bio-fuels, have strong potential,” said Dr Paefgen. With bio-fuel engines, the initial rollout will begin next year and the entire range should become compatible by 2012. “Bentley does not believe that short-term measures are an appropriate answer to these global issues, and is basing its strategy on a long-term vision.” Before the all-new powertrain arrives next decade, efficiency improvements will, according to Bentley, be achieved through the application of innovative technology to its eight and 12-cylinder engines, including “enhanced engine management, and new, improved transmissions and drivelines, as well as through weight reduction”.

Zagato2010 Bentley GTZ center image“We will set a benchmark in our segment of the industry by making every engine capable of running on renewable fuels, reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency throughout our fleet. “This is a major step in the history of Bentley, reflecting the increasing expectation from our customers around the world for performance motoring with fuel-efficient engines,” said Dr Paefgen. In a speech delivered at the Geneva motor show, Bentley CEO Franz-Josef Paefgen said the strategy would be based on three stages: reducing average emissions across its eight and 12-cylinder petrol engine range by at least 15 per cent by 2012; introducing an all-new powertrain by 2012 that will deliver a 40 per cent improvement in fuel economy “while maintaining current levels of performance”; and offering bio-ethanol-compatible engines, the first of which should be available next year. BENTLEY Motors outlined a new environmental strategy for the Volkswagen-owned British luxury brand last week, promising to reduce emissions and fuel consumption – but taking no radical steps towards reducing its reliance on large internal combustion engines.